Stewart-Sperry, McKenzie Convicted in Pierzchala Murder
Cayuga — May 2, 2024 — A jury has convicted Brandi Stewart-Sperry and Randall McKenzie of first-degree murder in the 2022 death of Ontario provincial Police (OPP) Constable Greg Pierzchala, near Hamilton. The verdict, delivered Friday evening, followed deliberations and resulted in an automatic life sentence with parole eligibility in 22 years. This marks a significant advancement in the case; further details will follow.
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stewart-sperry, McKenzie Convicted in 2022 Murder of Officer Pierzchala
A Cayuga court jury delivered a unanimous guilty verdict against Brandi Stewart-Sperry and Randall McKenzie on Friday evening, finding them responsible for the premeditated murder of Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Constable Greg Pierzchala near Hamilton in December 2022.
The Verdict and Sentencing
- Guilty Verdict: After deliberating for approximately six hours, the jury found both Stewart-Sperry and McKenzie guilty of first-degree murder.
- Automatic Sentence: The conviction carries an automatic sentence of life imprisonment with no possibility of parole for 25 years. Though, the judge factored in pre-trial detention, setting their parole eligibility to December 2047, effectively 22 years.
Reactions in the Courtroom
Randall McKenzie, wearing an ill-fitting shirt, reportedly smiled slightly before turning to face the courtroom audience as the verdict was read. He later addressed the victim’s family, stating, I’m sorry for what happened to you, what happened should never have happened to anyone.
He also gestured to his friends to remain calm.
Did You Know?
First-degree murder in Canada is defined as a planned and intentional killing. The mandatory sentence reflects the gravity of the crime.
Brandi Stewart-Sperry, in contrast, declined to address the court when given the chance by Justice Andrew Goodman of the Ontario Superior Court.
Judge’s Scathing Remarks
Justice Goodman delivered a harsh rebuke to both defendants.
Mr. McKenzie, your actions perpetrated in the composure make you a cruel and merciless man, Agent Pierzchala was young, you have no excuse for what you did.
Justice Andrew Goodman, Ontario Superior Court
He further added,
Your crime was most shocking …I prefer not to pronounce the adjective that I have in mind to describe it.
Justice Andrew Goodman, Ontario Superior Court
Addressing Stewart-Sperry, the judge stated,
Your action is just as cruel, and pitiful.
Justice Andrew Goodman, Ontario Superior Court
Family’s Decision
The Pierzchala family chose not to read a victim impact statement during the proceedings, opting instead to reserve their comments for the Canadian Conditional Liberations Commission. Justice Goodman expressed his condolences to the family, saying, I’m sorry for the trouble
